Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims) is a masterpiece of French High Gothic architecture begun in the early 13th century, the traditional coronation church of the kings of France, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1991). Badly damaged by German shelling in 1914 and later restored, it is famed for Marc Chagall's stained glass and the 'Smiling Angel' statue. As of 2026 the nave is free to enter, the restoration of its great organ (2021–2026) is wrapping up, and from late May to early October the free 'Regalia' sound-and-light show is projected on the facade in the evenings. No booking is needed for the nave — just mind Mass times and the ticketed, pre-booked tower tours.
The 'Smiling Angel' (Ange au Sourire), the beaming angel statue on the west front that has become the emblem of Reims
Marc Chagall's luminous blue stained-glass windows in the axial chapel behind the altar (alongside modern windows by Imi Knoebel)
The great west rose window and the facade's vast array of more than 2,000 carved statues
The nave and choir where French kings were crowned — the historic setting of Charles VII's coronation with Joan of Arc present (1429)
Climbing the 249 steps on the guided tower tour for close-up views of the sculpture and panoramas over Reims
Good to know
SafetyThe tower is a guided climb of 249 narrow, steep spiral steps with no lift — not ideal for those with knee problems or a fear of heights; also keep an eye on your belongings against pickpockets around the square and the train station.
SeasonJuly–August peak season and the evening 'Regalia' show (late May to early October) draw crowds, so book tower tours ahead and avoid the busiest time slots.
RulesEntry to the nave is free, but tower visits are paid, guided, pre-booked tours run through the Palais du Tau / Centre des monuments nationaux and operate seasonally (closed roughly mid-November to mid-February) — check hours and fees on the official site before you go.
MannersThis is a working place of worship, so dress modestly and keep quiet; on Sunday mornings (until about noon) only the narthex is open during Mass, and inside avoid flash and tripods when taking photos.
CautionBuy tower and audio-guide tickets only from official outlets (CMN / Palais du Tau), and book Reims champagne-cellar tours through established houses (Mumm, Taittinger, etc.) rather than street touts or marked-up resale tickets.
Practical info
From Paris (Gare de l'Est) the TGV reaches Reims central station in about 45 minutes, and the cathedral is a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) or a short ride on tram lines A/B (e.g. the Opéra stop). The nave is generally open free daily from morning (around 7:30–8:00) until about 7:30 pm (limited on Sunday mornings for Mass), but hours and tower-tour fees (about €9 for adults) can change, so confirm on the official website just before visiting.
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